Whether you prefer berry-laden American flag cakes or strawberry pies, fruit is a summer necessity. Picking your own is both fun and inexpensive. "There's very little structure," explains Bill Patterson of Patterson Farm in Chesterland. Here are four places to pick the day away
Jessica Roblin

Patterson Fruit Farm

Strawberry picking started in early June and ends July 3 (daily 8 a.m. until around 2 p.m.). If you miss your chance, don't worry. Peach picking by the basket starts in August and lasts for two to three weeks. 11414 Caves Road, Chesterland, 440-729-1964, pattersonfarm.com

Greenfield Berry Farm

This place offers strawberry-picking in June, blueberries through July and raspberries from August through November. "We follow organic practices," says owner Daniel Greenfield. "[We] don't spray pesticides." 2485 Major Road, Peninsula, 330-657-2924, greenfieldberryfarm.com

Blue Jay Orchard

"We expect you to see a real working farm," says owner Mary Evans. "We're one of the oldest pick-your-own apple orchards in Ohio." It has pick-your-own blueberries from late June to about mid-August and offers peaches through the end of August. 17909 Rapids Road, Hiram, 440-834-4318

Baumhart's Berry Farm

Open Tuesday through Saturday, the farm has ripe blueberries and blackberries in July, and raspberries are ready in August. Owner Donel Strenger says to bring a big basket. "People are often surprised by the size of our fruit." 2200 Baumhart Road, Vermilion, 440-984-0141, baumhartberryfarm.com